KY primary election guide: Build a ballot for Tuesday

Tuesday's Kentucky primary election will not just narrow the candidates in each race, but in many cases, the winner will likely take the seat because they are unopposed in November.

In Kenton and Campbell counties, voters will generally decide the judge-executive races – although voter turnout may be so low that just a few thousand people will choose who will lead their county for the next four years. The Boone County judge-executive could face a Libertarian and Independent candidate, but the primary candidate will have a strong head start.

Many commissioners races, along with county clerks, jailer and magistrates will be decided in this election.

Polls are open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Also important for this election: Your polling place may have moved. The Kentucky Legislature redrew district lines across the state, shifting some state politicians into different communities, and forcing precinct lines to be redrawn as well. Be sure to check your polling place before heading out to vote.

This guide offers information on some of the bigger races in the three-county area.

No matter where you live in Kentucky, you have something on the ballot.

What will I see on the ballot?

Because it's a primary, you will be given one of three ballots: Republican, Democrat or other. Nonpartisan races appear on both party ballots. Registered voters who did not choose to be affiliated with Republican or Democratic parties, are only eligible to vote for nonpartisan races in the primary.

Depending on which ballot you request, you'll see different races.

What if I am a Democrat and I want to vote in the Republican primary this year, or vice versa?

Kentucky state law requires any citizen who wishes to change his/her voter registration and also vote in that party's upcoming primary election must be registered with his/her new party by December 31st of the preceding year. The deadline also affects candidates who wish to switch political party affiliation and run in their new party's primary election or those seeking ballot access as an independent.

Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday. Many voters will have a new polling place because of state redistricting. Find your polling location at the Voter Information Center at https://cdcbp.ky.gov/VICWeb/index.jsp or call your county clerk.

Is it too late to register?

Yes, for the primary. But you can register for the fall election.

Do I need an ID to vote?

Yes, you do. All voters must produce identification. State law says that ID can include: personal acquaintance of the precinct officer, driver's license, Social Security card, credit card, or another form of ID containing both picture and signature.